Villa will prove to be far more determined and resolute opponents. John Gregory's side has progressively improved this season and are more than capable of giving Chelsea major problems.

In David James they have a goalkeeper who has regained his confidence and looks solid, well worthy of his place in Kevin Keegan's squad for Euro 2000.

The silky skills of both Paul Merson and the elusive Benito Carbone are tailor-made for the vast spaces of the Wembley pitch.

Dion Dublin is a proven goal scorer and after his career threatening accident earlier this season, he will be looking to take full advantage of his return to health.

But Chelsea too have players who have shown that they are able to perform on the big stage. Their displays in the European Champions' League have demonstrated they have undoubted quality.

The role of captain Denis Wise is sure to be a crucial one as he links play between defence and attack.

Vialli knows his side can take nothing for granted as they seek to emulate their triumph of two seasons ago against Middlesborough.

PIC/Chelsea will want to make up for the disappointment of losing to Barcelona in the Champions' League and not gaining a place in the tournament next season. Anthony Ingram